What to Knit When You’re Knitting in Public

So, do you knit in public, or are you too shy? Do you worry that someone will think you’re dangerous because you carry around pointy sticks, or do you consider it a knitterly duty to let your stitches out for some air as the weather turns warmer? Either way, you should be getting ready to knit in public with a bunch of other knitters on Worldwide Knit in Public Day. This exciting event has been around for several years and will be back next month (you can find or start a local event on their website), so it’s time to think about what you’ll knit.

If you’re going to be in the DC area, you’re going to want something that isn’t too big, because by the end of June you know it’s going to be a little warm around here. Lucky for you, knitting is a year-round hobby; even luckier, we have some ideas for you.

Lace has lots of little holes (you’ve noticed that, right?) and so it will be much cooler on your lap than, say, that cabled afghan you’ve been trying to finish. Leave the afghan at home and try one of our lace projects instead.

The ever-popular Traveling Woman shawl will have you making new friends in no time, while the Lace Ribbon Scarf by Veronik Avery (free pattern!) will serve you well throughout the summer, when you’re moving from heat outside to the air-conditioned cold inside.

If you aren’t in the market for a little something around your shoulders, try the Make Up Your Mind racerback from the latest Knitty, which is lacy yet sexy.

THREE: Something Impressive

You’ll be out there with lots of other knitters, and let’s face it – you might want to show off a little. Connie Chang Chinchio’s Sabbatical cardigan is lacy and lovely, and you’ll be able to wear it for evening walks on the beach when you go on vacation in August. Plus, CCC is one of Danielle’s favorite designers, so you’ll have something to talk to her about during Stitch in Space.

Joyce Fassbender’s Omelet, from the latest Knitty, will impress even the most jaded of knitters, and would look great with either jeans or a little black dress.

The Corinne cardigan is knit from side to side and would show off a kettle-dyed yarn beautifully.